Type II base for a big wood stove

I posted this in the HVAC forum, but maybe it should have gone here.

Anyway ... Hi all! I just bought a wood stove and will need a Type II hearth pad/base for it. (Type II because it's a big-a** stove that'll heat the whole house.) I could buy a pre-fab one, but I'm already over budget and would rather not spend an addtional 6 or 7 hundred.

So here's my question: Can I just put down three or so layers of durock or hardieboard, another couple layers up against the wall, and tile them with inexpensive ceramic from the Big Orange (or Blue) Store?

Stove is going on the lower floor, which has a concrete base with laminate wood flooring. The walls still have the 70s wood paneling, keeping them but painting them so the room doesn't look like a dungeon.

Any opinions / advice / wisecracks welcome.

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Type II base for a big wood stove

With any heating appliance that is a "listed appliance" there will be specifications from the manufacturer that provides the installation details. It will specify the distance to combustible surfaces and non-combustible surfaces, also referred to as protected surfaces. These specifications vary depending on the size of the stove, fuel, if it has a heat shield and whatever else factored into the testing of the stove. Check the manufacturer's installation specifications and install to that. If your municipality requires a permit for the installation then you will likely need to submit the specifications to them with the permit application. Some homeowners insurance policies require you notify them when you install a fireplace or stove. It probably will not be a factor with your stove but note if the manufacturer's specifications refers to non-combustible surfaces or non-combustible construction, they are different. good luck.

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Type II base for a big wood stove

Hi there Camper! According to the specs, with the rear heat shield (which comes standard), 'Rear clearance is 7" to combustible wall with top vent/ rear shield'. Still, they recommend going bigger than the standard 54x54 corner hearth pad, they suggest 60x60.

Type II base for a big wood stove

That is a nice looking stove. Ours is about that size but has no glass in the doors. Having had stoves in several of our houses, I suggest you consider a raised hearth. That makes loading the stove much easier on the back. Ours is raised just six inches and it makes a world of difference.

Oddly enough, I had to get a permit and inspection for the chimney, but nothing for the stove installation itself. My homeowner's insurance went up about $40 a year.